Student Profile

Brooke Hartigan - Conservation

“Already in our practicum we’ve been out monitoring lizards and geckos and helped with pest control, and we’ve even seen kiwi and takehe on a field trip. It’s pretty amazing getting to see the end goal while we’re still working towards it. I love conversation and being out in the bush and this course is giving me so many opportunities to be in that world.”

“I originally started Environmental Science at Waikato but the university context and the geology emphasis weren’t quite what I wanted, so I looked for more of a conservation path. When I hit the ‘enquire now’ button about this course, I was connected directly with a tutor who introduced me to other tutors so it felt helpful right from the start. My family are up here too so it’s a great fit.”

“It’s refreshing to be around other like-minded students all working towards the same end goal even though we have different points of focus. My interest is more terrestrial and I’m into the bush, while some of the others are more into marine conservation. Having such a range of local field trips within Northland helps us find the topics we’re interested in and to work out where we want to end up working.”

“The satisfaction of this course is that it leads to a life where the impact and benefits of what we’re doing can be enjoyed by everyone. Our practicum work has shown us there are opportunities everywhere so I’ll look for work when I finish the course.”

“I’ve always wanted to work for DOC, but as long as the work is related to conservation, I’ll be happy. I’m really keen to raise environmental awareness especially with kids. And to anyone out there who wants to spend everyday outdoors, come and do this course.”

Hayley Sharp - Environmental Science

“As New Zealanders we love the beach, the forest, and natural environments, but not enough of us are talking about looking after them or what state they might be in. I wanted to learn more and be around like-minded people who also understand that without the environment, we have nothing. I knew from day one I had made the right choice.”

“The tutors really get us immersed in the outdoors. It’s very grounding - not just all statistics and reports inside a classroom. Northland is a great place for that, plus our small class sizes mean that we get out and see so much that huge classes at other universities might not get the chance to. There are also a ton of opportunities to get involved in the industry as our tutors have a lot of contacts and are a constant support.”

“I’m amazed at how many field trips we have – to places like the Poor Knights and Tiritiri Matangi. But I’m also surprised at how my whole mind-set has changed. Our tutors have taught us that modern-day conservationists understand that as humans we need resources, but we need to find the best way to go about utilising those resources. It’s not about fighting change, it’s about the best way forward.”

“My dream job would be in environmental advocacy. The term 'greenies' is so out-dated and is not a niche type of person. Environmental issues affect us all. There are better ways to do things, but we need more people on board to make this happen. It’s as much about getting people on board as it is about the science and I want to be part of that.”